Body-worn cameras (BWCs) have become increasingly prevalent in law enforcement agencies worldwide, driven by the need for greater transparency, accountability, and trust between police and the communities they serve. While much of the discussion around BWCs focuses on their impact on police behavior, a crucial question is whether these devices also influence civilian behavior during police interactions. This blog explores the potential effects of BWCs on how civilians behave when interacting with law enforcement officers.

1. Enhancing Transparency and Accountability:

One of the primary motivations for deploying BWCs is to increase transparency and accountability in policing. When civilians know they are being recorded, they may alter their behavior to present themselves in a more favorable light. The awareness of being on camera can lead to more civil and cooperative interactions, as individuals are conscious that their actions are being documented and could be reviewed later by authorities or in court.